Youth project helps cancer patients

October 22, 2012

MARQUETTE - In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Lake Superior Village Youth and Family Center of Marquette recently held an activity for local youths to allow them to give back to their community.

More than a dozen kids gathered at the center recently to tie-dye bandanas that will be sent to the Marquette General Cancer Treatment Center at the Peninsula Medical Center and be used by patients undergoing chemotherapy and experiencing hair loss.

The idea started with Marquette resident Melanie Purres, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2011. While she was receiving chemotherapy treatments, Purres' children made bandanas for her to wear. She then decided to extend the idea to a larger group.

Article Photos

Melanie Purres, a Marquette resident, initiated the idea to tie-dye the bandanas. Purres was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in July 2011. Her children made bandanas for her to wear while she underwent chemotherapy. (Journal photo by Abbey Hauswirth)

Walmart donated the items used to make the bandanas. Purres said all of the kids were very receptive to the activity.

"I think they appreciated that they are contributing in a positive way to make people feel better ... and warmer," she said.